ELDERLY people in Garston are being terrorised in their homes by yobs.

ELDERLY people in Garston are being terrorised in their homes by yobs.

The pensioners at at Blake Court sheltered accommodation complex on Banks Road have had windows smashed and fireworks set off outside their front doors.

Ethel McGuffie, 86, said she was desperate to find somewhere else to live because of the teenage thugs.

"Every evening someone's window is smashed and has to be boarded up. I live on the second floor and have also had problems with kids throwing bricks at the window.

"They also set off fireworks all through the night which are so loud, it is terrifying."

Residents started moving out after the complex was earmarked for closure. But this has left several empty flats being targeted by vandals.

A Merseyside police spokesman said: "Officers are aware that there are vandals near the old folk's home causing concern. They have stepped up patrols for the next few weeks."

Cllr Flo Clucas, executive member for housing and community safety, said: "I am outraged at the behaviour of a small number of thugs, which is affecting the lives of some of the city's most vulnerable people.

"Parents have a central role to play in preventing this anti-social behaviour from occurring, and I am appealing to all parents in the Garston Under the Bridge area to make sure they are aware of the move-ments of their children.

"The police have stepped up patrols in the area and we are working with our own security service to respond immediately to any concerns from tenants.

"We are replacing the smashed windows with stronger polycarbonate windows, which are much more difficult to destroy, and have recruited a new scheme manager.

"The city council is currently developing proposals to rebuild this sheltered accommodation on a new site next year.

"We have fully consulted with tenants and their families. We have reassured them that we will do all we can to meet their needs and provide them with the housing they deserve and need."